GreenFaith
Today's Date: 02/26/07
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
When I was younger, I went on many canoe trips in Northern Ontario (I am originally from Toronto). These are the most importance interactions that I have had. More recently, summer of 2001, wilderness kayaking trip in Alaska and many others since then.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
The lake that my camp was on.
Now? No, there are many. I like the mountains and oceans particularly.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Hard to say. I really like dogs because of their emotional response to humans. But I am particularly awed by large birds, especially raptors.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Climate change. Species extinction.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
We are part of the environment. It is not "out there" in the wilderness. It is all interconnected. And we need to realize that at every moment of our lives.
Thanks to my sister Michelle McIlroy for designing the logo!
February 27, 2007
Danae Werthmann
Administrative Assistant, Algalita Marine Research Foundation (and full-time student at CSULB)
Today's Date: February 21, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Not really sure about this one, but seeing butterflies and learning about their existence as a little girl made me appreciate the value of nature, animals and their habitat. Or learning from the Bible how God created the Earth and humans were suppose to be stewards of the earth and care for all the other living things.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
a tree, really any tree that I was able to climb up into and trying to always reach for the top, so I could see what was around
Now? the beach, anywhere that I can hike
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
I would have to say a dog, I've always wanted one and when I actually have a home of my own and going to finally own one.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
right now: carbon emissions and global warming, in the future (if the first can be resolved): plastic debris/pollution (that is pretty persistent now and causing huge problems)
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
First be aware of what is around you and try to do NO harm as best you know how, and then learn more about your local environment and how to protect, maintain, restore it, etc. so you could do your part.
Today's Date: February 21, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Not really sure about this one, but seeing butterflies and learning about their existence as a little girl made me appreciate the value of nature, animals and their habitat. Or learning from the Bible how God created the Earth and humans were suppose to be stewards of the earth and care for all the other living things.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
a tree, really any tree that I was able to climb up into and trying to always reach for the top, so I could see what was around
Now? the beach, anywhere that I can hike
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
I would have to say a dog, I've always wanted one and when I actually have a home of my own and going to finally own one.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
right now: carbon emissions and global warming, in the future (if the first can be resolved): plastic debris/pollution (that is pretty persistent now and causing huge problems)
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
First be aware of what is around you and try to do NO harm as best you know how, and then learn more about your local environment and how to protect, maintain, restore it, etc. so you could do your part.
February 16, 2007
Kokou Kouami
Faculty of Sciences, University of Lomé, Togo
Today's Date: 16-02-07
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
To assist to the destruction of forest fragment around my village
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Farm
Now? Forest
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Giraffe
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
The disappearing of the forest all over the tropical word and the challenge is to reconstitute them
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
To be careful on our manner to use natural resources
Today's Date: 16-02-07
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
To assist to the destruction of forest fragment around my village
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Farm
Now? Forest
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Giraffe
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
The disappearing of the forest all over the tropical word and the challenge is to reconstitute them
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
To be careful on our manner to use natural resources
February 15, 2007
Victoria Lichtschein
Secretaría de Ambiente y Desarrollo Sustentable, Argentina
Today's Date: February 15, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Working with right whales in Peninsula Valdés, Argentina.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, many, I live in a beautiful country.
Now? The same goes for now.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
All animals are my favourite, even those nobody likes: for example, I love reptiles and I LOVE sharks.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Undoubtedly deforestation. The world is losing its forests at a scandalous rate. My country is suffering from this very badly and we are losing all of our native forests to agriculture, mainly soybean.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Taking care of the environment for ourselves and our children is the difference between being civilized or not...there is no choice between taking care of the environment and progress, that is a falacious choice.
Today's Date: February 15, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Working with right whales in Peninsula Valdés, Argentina.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, many, I live in a beautiful country.
Now? The same goes for now.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
All animals are my favourite, even those nobody likes: for example, I love reptiles and I LOVE sharks.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Undoubtedly deforestation. The world is losing its forests at a scandalous rate. My country is suffering from this very badly and we are losing all of our native forests to agriculture, mainly soybean.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Taking care of the environment for ourselves and our children is the difference between being civilized or not...there is no choice between taking care of the environment and progress, that is a falacious choice.
February 14, 2007
Ladislav Ambros, RNDr.
Director of Landscape Tending Department/Ministry of Environment of the Slovak Republic
Today's Date: 14 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I born as the son one from the forest managers and all my life is with the interaction with an animal and nature.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
That is midland of the South Slovakia.
Now? The same place.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
I have more favorite animals - from insects, frogs, fish, birds and mammalia, but one was my nickname - hedgehog... I have the same animus.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
That is a Climate Change and big number diminishing species. In the future is the global interactions between species and ecosystems / start now.../
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
We need not only protection and conservation of the nature, we need better control of the challenges in the nature.
Today's Date: 14 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I born as the son one from the forest managers and all my life is with the interaction with an animal and nature.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
That is midland of the South Slovakia.
Now? The same place.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
I have more favorite animals - from insects, frogs, fish, birds and mammalia, but one was my nickname - hedgehog... I have the same animus.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
That is a Climate Change and big number diminishing species. In the future is the global interactions between species and ecosystems / start now.../
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
We need not only protection and conservation of the nature, we need better control of the challenges in the nature.
David Rovere
Tierra del Volcan, Ecuador
Today's Date: 13 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
For me the pink dolphin in amazon in Ecuador
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes the vilcamamba zone in the south Of country
Now? Zancudococha in the jungle
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Pink dolphin because its hard to exist for a dolphin and it´s not common it´s a survivor
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Preserve the jungle because is the last chance for sweet water
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Jungle in Brazil , Bolivia , Peru , Colombia an Ecuador , and also the strow (paramo) in Ecuador , Perú and Chile
Today's Date: 13 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
For me the pink dolphin in amazon in Ecuador
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes the vilcamamba zone in the south Of country
Now? Zancudococha in the jungle
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Pink dolphin because its hard to exist for a dolphin and it´s not common it´s a survivor
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Preserve the jungle because is the last chance for sweet water
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Jungle in Brazil , Bolivia , Peru , Colombia an Ecuador , and also the strow (paramo) in Ecuador , Perú and Chile
Eric Stiles
Vice President for Conservation and Stewardship, New Jersey Audubon Society
Today's Date: 12 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
[no answer given]
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes – saltmarsh coastal bays and Pinelands rivers
Now? Terrace Pond
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Bald Eagle – story of how dedicated volunteers can restore endangered species.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Ensuring decisions we make today include preserving natural heritage for tomorrow
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Lead through offering a vision of success.
Today's Date: 12 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
[no answer given]
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes – saltmarsh coastal bays and Pinelands rivers
Now? Terrace Pond
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Bald Eagle – story of how dedicated volunteers can restore endangered species.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Ensuring decisions we make today include preserving natural heritage for tomorrow
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Lead through offering a vision of success.
Joe Liebezeit
Associate Conservation Biologist, Wildlife Conservation Society
Today's Date: 2/12/07
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
That is a tough question. I've worked out in the field in many different places as a field biologist over the past 15 years. I would say that seeing wolves in Yellowstone for the first time a few years ago was a pretty amazing (dare I say "religious") experience. Birding in Panama and seeing over 20 species of bird in one tree was another one. Many more, I could go on indefinitely.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Growing up in suburban New Jersey I had to make due with what few patches of undeveloped lands were left in the surrounding area. I remember exploring the creek that ran through our town by walking up it for a mile or two. I would also go birding in the remnant patches of woods near my home and sometimes see some neat migratory birds. Of course, going on vacation and getting up to Vermont and more rural places were great. I would explore the surrounding woods wherever we stayed.
Now? I still get to go out in the field once a year. I lead projects up on the North Slope of Alaska studying the potential impact of oil development on the nest survivorship of tundra-nesting birds. I work out of a remote camp near Teshekpuk Lake for 2 months during this time. It is an amazing place, over 50 miles from the nearest road. It is a place where we get to witness the migration of barren-ground caribou and see the occasionally grizzly bear.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Once again, that is a very difficult question. That is like asking "What is your favorite song?” There are so many! I am definitely partial to birds and always have been an avid birder. In particular, I am fascinated by migratory birds, like warblers, vireos, and tanagers that spend their summers in North America, but return to the New World tropics every winter.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Both now and in the future: 1. Global Climate Change and 2. Natural Resource Extraction
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Don't take it for granted.
Today's Date: 2/12/07
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
That is a tough question. I've worked out in the field in many different places as a field biologist over the past 15 years. I would say that seeing wolves in Yellowstone for the first time a few years ago was a pretty amazing (dare I say "religious") experience. Birding in Panama and seeing over 20 species of bird in one tree was another one. Many more, I could go on indefinitely.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Growing up in suburban New Jersey I had to make due with what few patches of undeveloped lands were left in the surrounding area. I remember exploring the creek that ran through our town by walking up it for a mile or two. I would also go birding in the remnant patches of woods near my home and sometimes see some neat migratory birds. Of course, going on vacation and getting up to Vermont and more rural places were great. I would explore the surrounding woods wherever we stayed.
Now? I still get to go out in the field once a year. I lead projects up on the North Slope of Alaska studying the potential impact of oil development on the nest survivorship of tundra-nesting birds. I work out of a remote camp near Teshekpuk Lake for 2 months during this time. It is an amazing place, over 50 miles from the nearest road. It is a place where we get to witness the migration of barren-ground caribou and see the occasionally grizzly bear.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Once again, that is a very difficult question. That is like asking "What is your favorite song?” There are so many! I am definitely partial to birds and always have been an avid birder. In particular, I am fascinated by migratory birds, like warblers, vireos, and tanagers that spend their summers in North America, but return to the New World tropics every winter.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Both now and in the future: 1. Global Climate Change and 2. Natural Resource Extraction
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Don't take it for granted.
Jean-Christophe Vié, DVM, Ph.D.
Deputy Head, Species Programme, IUCN - The World Conservation Union
Today's Date: 12 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Working on marine turtles. They make the link between land and oceans. They are easy to see and the best support for communication and education about the environment. You can have 20 fascinated kids around a turtle on a beach listening to you for 30 minutes...
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I dreamt alot about the East African Parks
Now? East African Parks and the Amazon forest.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Many but I used to be a primatologist and therefore white faced sakis, the subject of my thesis, come on top of the list.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Human population growth and associated consumption modes and climate change
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Save as much as you can (water, energy..), do not buy useless things (big cars, ...), think twice before buying (do you really need this? What does the producer do for the environment?... ) and in general reduce consumption.
Today's Date: 12 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Working on marine turtles. They make the link between land and oceans. They are easy to see and the best support for communication and education about the environment. You can have 20 fascinated kids around a turtle on a beach listening to you for 30 minutes...
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I dreamt alot about the East African Parks
Now? East African Parks and the Amazon forest.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Many but I used to be a primatologist and therefore white faced sakis, the subject of my thesis, come on top of the list.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Human population growth and associated consumption modes and climate change
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Save as much as you can (water, energy..), do not buy useless things (big cars, ...), think twice before buying (do you really need this? What does the producer do for the environment?... ) and in general reduce consumption.
Rodney Bone
Website Coordinator, Government of Saint Helena
Today's Date: 12 February 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
When I am away from people, artificial sounds and scents I am relaxed and at peace I can think more clearly
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
By a pond in rutland UK
Now? camping at Sandy Bay, Saint Helena Island
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Donkeys because they are friendly, and strong and I believe that they have a fine sense of direction, if one was lost and injured then they are strong enough to get one home
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
now we are creating rubbish tips which although they are covered still contribute bad or even poisonous substances which eventually end up in the water table the challenge is in getting people to see that utilising these tips will have a bad effect for the future
in the future we need to find alternatives for our basic power requirements
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Recycle everything that you possibly can
Today's Date: 12 February 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
When I am away from people, artificial sounds and scents I am relaxed and at peace I can think more clearly
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
By a pond in rutland UK
Now? camping at Sandy Bay, Saint Helena Island
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Donkeys because they are friendly, and strong and I believe that they have a fine sense of direction, if one was lost and injured then they are strong enough to get one home
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
now we are creating rubbish tips which although they are covered still contribute bad or even poisonous substances which eventually end up in the water table the challenge is in getting people to see that utilising these tips will have a bad effect for the future
in the future we need to find alternatives for our basic power requirements
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Recycle everything that you possibly can
Grace Pam
A.P. Leventis Ornithologial Research Institute, Nigeria.
Today’s Date: 12-02-2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
when i was a little girl, i loved spending time outdoors watching ants go to and fro. i would imagine what they were up to and wonder what it would be like understanding their 'language'.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes. my favourite spot was just outside our home, anywhere i could find ants busy with the days work.
Now? Now, i spend some time watching birds. i guess i did not get any guidance with the ants and no mentor so i lost it along the way. Now as an ornithologist, i go for birds.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
for me, i still think i am down with the ants. they amaze me with their high level of organization. with probably no leader, they go about their work diligently and orientate quite effectively.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
human population explosion which is the major reason why we need more of the things that make life more comfortable but also do damage to the environment.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
take care of it as though it were the only thing you had as an inheritance for your dear children. actually, that’s what it is.
Today’s Date: 12-02-2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
when i was a little girl, i loved spending time outdoors watching ants go to and fro. i would imagine what they were up to and wonder what it would be like understanding their 'language'.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes. my favourite spot was just outside our home, anywhere i could find ants busy with the days work.
Now? Now, i spend some time watching birds. i guess i did not get any guidance with the ants and no mentor so i lost it along the way. Now as an ornithologist, i go for birds.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
for me, i still think i am down with the ants. they amaze me with their high level of organization. with probably no leader, they go about their work diligently and orientate quite effectively.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
human population explosion which is the major reason why we need more of the things that make life more comfortable but also do damage to the environment.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
take care of it as though it were the only thing you had as an inheritance for your dear children. actually, that’s what it is.
Monina Gilbey
Project Officer, Environment Protection and Heritage Council, Australia
Today's Date: 12 February 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
When I was young, my dad would take me and my brother outside in the evening to watch spiders weaving webs. He would also stand us near a window during thunderstorms so that we could watch the lightning. These small acts helped me to learn that I should not fear nature, but respect it and appreciate its beauty.
(My mother was an ardent recycler of everything - particularly water. Growing up in such a "green" household, it's no wonder I have a passion to care for the environment).
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Kangaroo Island, South Australia.
Now? Kangaroo Island, South Australia.. I still go to Kangaroo Island for holidays now. It has beautiful, clean beaches with pure water and white sand. There is a treasure trove of wildlife: fairy penguins, wallabies, kangaroos and seals - to name a few. If you ever visit South Australia, you must go to Kangaroo Island - it is a very special place.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
I love so many animals that it is very hard to choose just one. My favourite is the gecko. I sometimes find them under pot plants in my garden - occasionally they venture into our house. I love watching them climbing walls - it is truly amazing.
I have started a garden design business, which concentrates on designing with local plant species. As I love geckos so much, the business has a green gecko for its logo.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Climate change. One of the greatest challenges is convincing those who aren't "green" to make changes to their lives e.g. consume less resources, drive their car less etc.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
We only have one earth and we need somewhere to live.Think about the effect of your actions on this planet and what changes you can make to your local environment. Calculate your ecological footprint and try to start reducing your footprint today. http://www.earthday.net/footprint/index.asp
Today's Date: 12 February 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
When I was young, my dad would take me and my brother outside in the evening to watch spiders weaving webs. He would also stand us near a window during thunderstorms so that we could watch the lightning. These small acts helped me to learn that I should not fear nature, but respect it and appreciate its beauty.
(My mother was an ardent recycler of everything - particularly water. Growing up in such a "green" household, it's no wonder I have a passion to care for the environment).
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Kangaroo Island, South Australia.
Now? Kangaroo Island, South Australia.. I still go to Kangaroo Island for holidays now. It has beautiful, clean beaches with pure water and white sand. There is a treasure trove of wildlife: fairy penguins, wallabies, kangaroos and seals - to name a few. If you ever visit South Australia, you must go to Kangaroo Island - it is a very special place.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
I love so many animals that it is very hard to choose just one. My favourite is the gecko. I sometimes find them under pot plants in my garden - occasionally they venture into our house. I love watching them climbing walls - it is truly amazing.
I have started a garden design business, which concentrates on designing with local plant species. As I love geckos so much, the business has a green gecko for its logo.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Climate change. One of the greatest challenges is convincing those who aren't "green" to make changes to their lives e.g. consume less resources, drive their car less etc.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
We only have one earth and we need somewhere to live.Think about the effect of your actions on this planet and what changes you can make to your local environment. Calculate your ecological footprint and try to start reducing your footprint today. http://www.earthday.net/footprint/index.asp
Oberon Zell-Ravenheart
Headmaster, Grey School of Wizardry; President, TheaGenesis LLC; Primate, Church of All Worlds
Today's Date: 2/10/07
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Wow--so many! All my life I've had intense interactions with many and various animals--both wild and domestic. All of them have powerfully affected me.
I have raised wild babies: bats, owls, deer, pigs, possums...
I have had several boas and pythons that have had significant impacts on my life.
I have had cats who were so intelligent that they were fully members of the family.
I have hiked and camped out in the wilderness in many places throughout the country and elsewhere, in places as diverse as Hawaii and Alaska. I lived 8 years in a wilderness homesteading community of 5,600 acres, where each family had to create an entire homestead and life in the woods, with no electricity, phone, TV, or even radio.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Sure--the woods behind our home.
Now? The 55-acre parcel of land called Annwfn that is adjacent to the parcel mentioned above where I lived for so long.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
This is tough, as I have so many favorites! But if I have to pick just one, it would have to be a fruit bat/flying fox. I've had pet bats since I was a kid, and I just think they're incredibly cool. And a fruit bat--as a real genuine "flying monkey"--is certainly the very coolest! If I lived in Australia, I would definitely have one!
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Global warming and the attendant rise of sea levels--today and tomorrow.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Love your Mother!
Today's Date: 2/10/07
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Wow--so many! All my life I've had intense interactions with many and various animals--both wild and domestic. All of them have powerfully affected me.
I have raised wild babies: bats, owls, deer, pigs, possums...
I have had several boas and pythons that have had significant impacts on my life.
I have had cats who were so intelligent that they were fully members of the family.
I have hiked and camped out in the wilderness in many places throughout the country and elsewhere, in places as diverse as Hawaii and Alaska. I lived 8 years in a wilderness homesteading community of 5,600 acres, where each family had to create an entire homestead and life in the woods, with no electricity, phone, TV, or even radio.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Sure--the woods behind our home.
Now? The 55-acre parcel of land called Annwfn that is adjacent to the parcel mentioned above where I lived for so long.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
This is tough, as I have so many favorites! But if I have to pick just one, it would have to be a fruit bat/flying fox. I've had pet bats since I was a kid, and I just think they're incredibly cool. And a fruit bat--as a real genuine "flying monkey"--is certainly the very coolest! If I lived in Australia, I would definitely have one!
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Global warming and the attendant rise of sea levels--today and tomorrow.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Love your Mother!
Kathryn Ramirez
private citizen
Today's Date: February 10, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I am passionate about animals. If I were unable to have two or three pets at any given time, I would be positively miserable.
I had a cat, Josie that I'd got as a stray when it was fairly young. I think her parents must have been pretty wild, because she never, in all the time I had her, ever warmed up to people the way other cats I'd had did. I had her for 18 years! During that time, I tried and tried to get her to want to sit on my lap or even next to me on the couch. I would have been happy if she'd rubbed up against my legs and purred. Now I've had enough cats to know that most of them are, by nature, somewhat aloof and independent. The cat I have now is super loving and friendly, but she's still a cat, if you know what I mean. But Josie was the epitome of aloof. I never felt an ounce of love from her.
Well, during Josie's last few months, she had a lot of health problems. We even ended up having to have one of her legs amputated. It cost us a small fortune, but the vet assured us that she could still have a quality life with just three legs. We were amazed at how well she adapted. Finally, though, she stopped eating and started losing a lot of weight. When we took her in to the vet that time, she said that Josie's condition was terminal. We made the hard decision to put her to sleep. We decided to stay with her when the vet gave her the injection, even though we didn't know whether it would give her any comfort at all to have us there. After all, she didn't seem to have found much comfort in having lived with us for 18 years.
Anyway, the vet let her lie down on a towel on the examining table and gave her the shot. She told us it would be painless and would just take a few minutes to end Josie's life. I stood next to her and petted her the whole time. I had expected that she would just close her eyes and eventually stop breathing. But what actually happened astonished me. She was in a position where she really couldn't see me; I was kind of behind her. A few seconds after the vet injected her, she suddenly craned her neck so that she would be able to see me. I don't know why she wanted to see me. She seemed to be completely at peace and not suffering at all. But then she did something she had not done in 18 years. She looked directly into my eyes (kind of the way a dog will often do). And when she did, I saw an understanding and a love that I had never seen in her eyes before. We just looked into each other's eyes and I felt so strongly that she was thinking, "Oh, now I see! You really loved me, didn't you? All those years... And now you're helping me to move on. Thank you. I love you, too, you know." People who have never seen that look will balk, but I know Josie's spirit was about to leave her body and I believe God allowed us a brief moment of connection we'd never had before. I will never forget it as long as I live.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, I loved Bryce Canyon in southern Utah. I think it's one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Now? Bryce Canyon -- still.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Oh, man, I just don't know. I seriously just love them all. Most of my own personal experience is with cats and dogs, though, so I guess that's what my answer would have to be.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Probably global warming, now and in the future.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
I think we recognize that God gave us dominion over the earth, He meant that He was entrusting it to our care. That means He expects us to take care of it and not destroy it. I realize that's pretty vague, and I'm sorry. It's the best I can do.
Today's Date: February 10, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I am passionate about animals. If I were unable to have two or three pets at any given time, I would be positively miserable.
I had a cat, Josie that I'd got as a stray when it was fairly young. I think her parents must have been pretty wild, because she never, in all the time I had her, ever warmed up to people the way other cats I'd had did. I had her for 18 years! During that time, I tried and tried to get her to want to sit on my lap or even next to me on the couch. I would have been happy if she'd rubbed up against my legs and purred. Now I've had enough cats to know that most of them are, by nature, somewhat aloof and independent. The cat I have now is super loving and friendly, but she's still a cat, if you know what I mean. But Josie was the epitome of aloof. I never felt an ounce of love from her.
Well, during Josie's last few months, she had a lot of health problems. We even ended up having to have one of her legs amputated. It cost us a small fortune, but the vet assured us that she could still have a quality life with just three legs. We were amazed at how well she adapted. Finally, though, she stopped eating and started losing a lot of weight. When we took her in to the vet that time, she said that Josie's condition was terminal. We made the hard decision to put her to sleep. We decided to stay with her when the vet gave her the injection, even though we didn't know whether it would give her any comfort at all to have us there. After all, she didn't seem to have found much comfort in having lived with us for 18 years.
Anyway, the vet let her lie down on a towel on the examining table and gave her the shot. She told us it would be painless and would just take a few minutes to end Josie's life. I stood next to her and petted her the whole time. I had expected that she would just close her eyes and eventually stop breathing. But what actually happened astonished me. She was in a position where she really couldn't see me; I was kind of behind her. A few seconds after the vet injected her, she suddenly craned her neck so that she would be able to see me. I don't know why she wanted to see me. She seemed to be completely at peace and not suffering at all. But then she did something she had not done in 18 years. She looked directly into my eyes (kind of the way a dog will often do). And when she did, I saw an understanding and a love that I had never seen in her eyes before. We just looked into each other's eyes and I felt so strongly that she was thinking, "Oh, now I see! You really loved me, didn't you? All those years... And now you're helping me to move on. Thank you. I love you, too, you know." People who have never seen that look will balk, but I know Josie's spirit was about to leave her body and I believe God allowed us a brief moment of connection we'd never had before. I will never forget it as long as I live.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, I loved Bryce Canyon in southern Utah. I think it's one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Now? Bryce Canyon -- still.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Oh, man, I just don't know. I seriously just love them all. Most of my own personal experience is with cats and dogs, though, so I guess that's what my answer would have to be.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Probably global warming, now and in the future.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
I think we recognize that God gave us dominion over the earth, He meant that He was entrusting it to our care. That means He expects us to take care of it and not destroy it. I realize that's pretty vague, and I'm sorry. It's the best I can do.
February 09, 2007
Nicola Barnard
International Coral Reef Action Network
Today's Date: 09.02.07
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Seeing wild baby black tip reef sharks feeding in a lagoon in western Australia.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Osea Island, UK
Now? Vancouver Island, Canada
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Tough one. Dogs - for their boundless energy and companionship.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
It has to be climate change for both. This will affect every aspect of our ecosystems and our lives - food availability, development and economy, leisure, travel, health, governance etc. The lag time on the effects means that this should be our primary focus now.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
learn from those who have nothing - become more resourceful and try not to waste unnecessarily.
Today's Date: 09.02.07
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Seeing wild baby black tip reef sharks feeding in a lagoon in western Australia.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Osea Island, UK
Now? Vancouver Island, Canada
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Tough one. Dogs - for their boundless energy and companionship.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
It has to be climate change for both. This will affect every aspect of our ecosystems and our lives - food availability, development and economy, leisure, travel, health, governance etc. The lag time on the effects means that this should be our primary focus now.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
learn from those who have nothing - become more resourceful and try not to waste unnecessarily.
Peter Dann
Phillip Island Nature Park
Today's Date: 7 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Many but reading “Tarka the Otter” as a child is one
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, my grandparents’ farm
Now? [no answer given]
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Kookaburra-long association with them.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Human population expansion and growth
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Reduce human population sizes
Today's Date: 7 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Many but reading “Tarka the Otter” as a child is one
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, my grandparents’ farm
Now? [no answer given]
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Kookaburra-long association with them.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Human population expansion and growth
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Reduce human population sizes
February 08, 2007
Jorge Albuquerque
Associacao Montanha Viva www.montanhaviva.blogspot.com
Today's Date: Feb 8 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
A Peregrine Falcon in my earliest days as a Biology Student. I used to watch a few wintering falcon in my home Town Porto Alegre in South Brazil while did my college. Theses interactions were quite strong and shaped my life as a conservation Biologist.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I lived in a big city. the only outdoor type of place was a field where we play soccer.
Now? Well, now I like to spend hours in field work searching for hawk eagles in the Serra Geral area in Santa Catarina ( www.projetogavioesdepenacho.blogspot.com). Also I have a small property covered of rain forest near my home in Florianopolis, a great place to bird watch and think about life.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
My favorite animal is the Great Kisskadee because it reminds me of my childhood in Porto Alegre.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
I would say that the major challenge is to try to teach people to change their view of how to prosper. The agroindustry in Brazil is destroying all the remnants of forests and wild open areas. Burning large areas, they contribute to global warming.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Try to remain simple and follow a humble life without a cascade of consumism.. Respect and fight to protect the last sanctuaries in our planet, either near or far away from you.
I also have another blog where I write about this type of subject: www.mataatlanticasc.blogspot.com visit it!!!
Today's Date: Feb 8 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
A Peregrine Falcon in my earliest days as a Biology Student. I used to watch a few wintering falcon in my home Town Porto Alegre in South Brazil while did my college. Theses interactions were quite strong and shaped my life as a conservation Biologist.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I lived in a big city. the only outdoor type of place was a field where we play soccer.
Now? Well, now I like to spend hours in field work searching for hawk eagles in the Serra Geral area in Santa Catarina ( www.projetogavioesdepenacho.blogspot.com). Also I have a small property covered of rain forest near my home in Florianopolis, a great place to bird watch and think about life.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
My favorite animal is the Great Kisskadee because it reminds me of my childhood in Porto Alegre.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
I would say that the major challenge is to try to teach people to change their view of how to prosper. The agroindustry in Brazil is destroying all the remnants of forests and wild open areas. Burning large areas, they contribute to global warming.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Try to remain simple and follow a humble life without a cascade of consumism.. Respect and fight to protect the last sanctuaries in our planet, either near or far away from you.
I also have another blog where I write about this type of subject: www.mataatlanticasc.blogspot.com visit it!!!
Ernesto Malaga Arenas
Jefe, Santuario Nacional Lagunas de Mejia
Today's Date: feb 8 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
work on to Manu National Park
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Beaches of southwest peru during summer
Now? El Caucho scientific station, Tumbes National Reserve, north Peru
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
I love Scarlet bellied Mountain tanager
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Warming climate and loss of water sources
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Please be a teacher with children about environment as our home.
Today's Date: feb 8 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
work on to Manu National Park
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Beaches of southwest peru during summer
Now? El Caucho scientific station, Tumbes National Reserve, north Peru
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
I love Scarlet bellied Mountain tanager
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Warming climate and loss of water sources
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Please be a teacher with children about environment as our home.
Francisco Valdés-Perezgasga
President, Prodefensa del Nazas
Today's Date: 8th February 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Animal: Being watched by semi-captive Mexican wolves.
Nature: Waking in a riparian forest in a desert river.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, the Nazas River in North-Central Mexico
Now? A small wooded area (Montezuma bald cypress, Cottonwood, Willow) five hundred meters from the main channel of the Nazas River in North-Central México
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
The wolf for its independent spirit and its wildness
The raven for its intelligence
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Global warning, now and in the future
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Be aware that wild ecosystems exist before our species evolve and that we are what we are because of those ecosystems. We are their creatures. For this reason alone we have a moral obligation towards conservation.
Today's Date: 8th February 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Animal: Being watched by semi-captive Mexican wolves.
Nature: Waking in a riparian forest in a desert river.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Yes, the Nazas River in North-Central Mexico
Now? A small wooded area (Montezuma bald cypress, Cottonwood, Willow) five hundred meters from the main channel of the Nazas River in North-Central México
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
The wolf for its independent spirit and its wildness
The raven for its intelligence
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Global warning, now and in the future
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Be aware that wild ecosystems exist before our species evolve and that we are what we are because of those ecosystems. We are their creatures. For this reason alone we have a moral obligation towards conservation.
Samir al badrawi
Chairman, Iraqi Green Peace Org
Today's Date: 8 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
The interaction for me is the Arbores, & the animal is the cameles.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Now? yes the Zoo.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
the favorite animal is the camel.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
the greatest environmental challenge is the high rate of CO2 in the air .
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
is to switch off all the cars in that place or in our country once a week .
Today's Date: 8 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
The interaction for me is the Arbores, & the animal is the cameles.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Now? yes the Zoo.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
the favorite animal is the camel.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
the greatest environmental challenge is the high rate of CO2 in the air .
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
is to switch off all the cars in that place or in our country once a week .
The Most Rev. Desmond M. Tutu
Anglican Archbishop Emeritus of Cape Town, South Africa
Today’s Date: 12 January 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I used to have a dog as a boy and when I became a father got our children a dog named Princess. One day we found her under our bed dying. She had been attacked by other dogs and they had nearly ripped off her skin from head to tail. We were hugely traumatized.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I loved going to a stream with my friends for a swim. It was just below our township.
Now? Standing on the seashore gazing across the Atlantic at Robben Island
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Dogs, because they are so faithful
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
There is no doubt it is global warming and how we cope with that.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Remember we are God's representatives and so we should act responsibly as God's stewards. That would determine what we have to do and how we do it.
[answers to 1-3 sent via postal mail, 4 & 5 answered via email 7 Feb 2007]
Today’s Date: 12 January 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I used to have a dog as a boy and when I became a father got our children a dog named Princess. One day we found her under our bed dying. She had been attacked by other dogs and they had nearly ripped off her skin from head to tail. We were hugely traumatized.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I loved going to a stream with my friends for a swim. It was just below our township.
Now? Standing on the seashore gazing across the Atlantic at Robben Island
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Dogs, because they are so faithful
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
There is no doubt it is global warming and how we cope with that.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Remember we are God's representatives and so we should act responsibly as God's stewards. That would determine what we have to do and how we do it.
[answers to 1-3 sent via postal mail, 4 & 5 answered via email 7 Feb 2007]
Stefan Wallin
Minister for the Environment, Finland
Today's Date: Februari 7th 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Our beloved dog Charley, a Golden Retriever (born 1979, died 1994)
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Our summer cottage in the Vasa archipelago, Finland
Now? Same place
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
The dog. It´s a familiar pal.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Climate change.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
To take the environment into consideration in everydays´s life
Today's Date: Februari 7th 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Our beloved dog Charley, a Golden Retriever (born 1979, died 1994)
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Our summer cottage in the Vasa archipelago, Finland
Now? Same place
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
The dog. It´s a familiar pal.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Climate change.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
To take the environment into consideration in everydays´s life
Mike
Student (UK)
Today’s Date: 5 Feb. 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
the one that had the biggest impact on me was back packing through woods in Thailand.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
yes, we had a reservoir close to us where we could hire small boats and canoes for quite cheap.
Now? sadly not at the moment, I'm more in a gym than outside.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Panther, because it's a proud and skilled killer, yet looks so adorable!
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
our biggest challenge (at least, from my point of view in the UK) is letting the US to commit to cutting carbon levels. in the future, our challenge is on our scientists and inventors to help us survive without fossil fuels.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
wake up and smell the lack of fresh air!
Today’s Date: 5 Feb. 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
the one that had the biggest impact on me was back packing through woods in Thailand.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
yes, we had a reservoir close to us where we could hire small boats and canoes for quite cheap.
Now? sadly not at the moment, I'm more in a gym than outside.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Panther, because it's a proud and skilled killer, yet looks so adorable!
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
our biggest challenge (at least, from my point of view in the UK) is letting the US to commit to cutting carbon levels. in the future, our challenge is on our scientists and inventors to help us survive without fossil fuels.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
wake up and smell the lack of fresh air!
D. Avinandan
Business Analyst, Center for Excellence in Organisation, Malaysia
Today’s Date: Feb. 4, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Seeing Alexandrine Parakeets (Psittacula eupatria) in the wild at close quarters in Warangal, Andhra Pradesh and being able to photograph them was the Moment I cherish most in my life. Their graceful flight and very melodious sounding low pitched "KREEAK" sound still gladdens my heart when I think about. This species is declining heavily in India due to illegal poaching.
The animal with which my interaction had the biggest impact was a male plum headed parakeet (Psittacula cyanocephala) which I had procured from the bird market. I had kept in a cage for two years. He had an unconquerable spirit. He just refused to be tamed. I had to finally release him. But I do not know whether he survived or not. In all probability he was ripped apart by crows or cats. And the guilt of that incident just rips me apart. So I spend as much of my spare time on the Internet convincing people about the evils of the Wild Bird Trade-particularly –the wild parrot trade.
I have started a yahoo group for the same
http://groups.yahoo.com/groups/indianparakeets
Eventually I hope to start a Parrot rescue and conservation institute on the line of Foster Parrots in India.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
It was a small public garden named Beauty Spot, which was just about 500 metres away from my house in Bangalore which in the 1980’s was a really beautiful garden city. It was the location where my friends and I used to play childhood games like 'Hide and seek’. It was also the place where we hunted butterflies and collected botanical specimens for school projects.
Now? Though I might never get an opportunity to visit it again, the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary would rank as the most spectacular place I have ever been to. Pristine untouched beauty.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
It is tough to pin-point to one species. At least 20 odd species of Parrots could qualify for this. But if pushed to the wall I will select five species.
1. Budgerigars -Keeping and observing their behaviour got me interested in Nature
2. Scarlet macaws- A Lone interactive macaw in the Hyderabad Zoo used to mesmerize me whenever I paid a visit.
3. Hyacinth Macaw- Videos, films and images in books of wild Hyacinths satiated my aesthetic hunger. Never believe such a bird could exist. When I finaly saw one in a zoo, I was disappointed. The Captive specimens don't capture the spirit.
4. Kakapos: The tale of their sad decimation from abundance to extreme scarcity and the hard work of conservationists to keep the population afloat is very inspiring.
5. Alexandrine parakeet: Last but not the least- a spectacular but undervalued natural beauty which though not in immediate danger has many threats to its long term survival in many parts of the range.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
There are many great challenges facing us but the most underrated is that of invasive species. And this will continue to be a great challenge in the future with increasing ease of global transport for goods and people. The demand for wild animals as pets in emerging economies like China and India along with the existing economic powerhouses like US, EU and Japan also threatens to pose a threat to many charismatic species of wildlife.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Please do not buy wild caught animals as pets for conservation as well as welfare reasons.
Do not release captive exotic pets like Aquarium fish into native ecosystem.
Convert as much of the household waste-liquid and solid into compost/fertilizer for your garden plants.
Have only one child and convince others to do the same.
Today’s Date: Feb. 4, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Seeing Alexandrine Parakeets (Psittacula eupatria) in the wild at close quarters in Warangal, Andhra Pradesh and being able to photograph them was the Moment I cherish most in my life. Their graceful flight and very melodious sounding low pitched "KREEAK" sound still gladdens my heart when I think about. This species is declining heavily in India due to illegal poaching.
The animal with which my interaction had the biggest impact was a male plum headed parakeet (Psittacula cyanocephala) which I had procured from the bird market. I had kept in a cage for two years. He had an unconquerable spirit. He just refused to be tamed. I had to finally release him. But I do not know whether he survived or not. In all probability he was ripped apart by crows or cats. And the guilt of that incident just rips me apart. So I spend as much of my spare time on the Internet convincing people about the evils of the Wild Bird Trade-particularly –the wild parrot trade.
I have started a yahoo group for the same
http://groups.yahoo.com/groups/indianparakeets
Eventually I hope to start a Parrot rescue and conservation institute on the line of Foster Parrots in India.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
It was a small public garden named Beauty Spot, which was just about 500 metres away from my house in Bangalore which in the 1980’s was a really beautiful garden city. It was the location where my friends and I used to play childhood games like 'Hide and seek’. It was also the place where we hunted butterflies and collected botanical specimens for school projects.
Now? Though I might never get an opportunity to visit it again, the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary would rank as the most spectacular place I have ever been to. Pristine untouched beauty.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
It is tough to pin-point to one species. At least 20 odd species of Parrots could qualify for this. But if pushed to the wall I will select five species.
1. Budgerigars -Keeping and observing their behaviour got me interested in Nature
2. Scarlet macaws- A Lone interactive macaw in the Hyderabad Zoo used to mesmerize me whenever I paid a visit.
3. Hyacinth Macaw- Videos, films and images in books of wild Hyacinths satiated my aesthetic hunger. Never believe such a bird could exist. When I finaly saw one in a zoo, I was disappointed. The Captive specimens don't capture the spirit.
4. Kakapos: The tale of their sad decimation from abundance to extreme scarcity and the hard work of conservationists to keep the population afloat is very inspiring.
5. Alexandrine parakeet: Last but not the least- a spectacular but undervalued natural beauty which though not in immediate danger has many threats to its long term survival in many parts of the range.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
There are many great challenges facing us but the most underrated is that of invasive species. And this will continue to be a great challenge in the future with increasing ease of global transport for goods and people. The demand for wild animals as pets in emerging economies like China and India along with the existing economic powerhouses like US, EU and Japan also threatens to pose a threat to many charismatic species of wildlife.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Please do not buy wild caught animals as pets for conservation as well as welfare reasons.
Do not release captive exotic pets like Aquarium fish into native ecosystem.
Convert as much of the household waste-liquid and solid into compost/fertilizer for your garden plants.
Have only one child and convince others to do the same.
Karen Kohler
Research Manager, Tourism KwaZulu-Natal
Today’s Date: 5 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Hiking, Drakensberg, Andes and Rockies
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Kenton on Sea, Eastern Cape, and Cathedral Peak, Drakensberg
Now? Drakensberg, and Swartvlei, Western Cape
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Squirrel. Brought one up on Cape Town and it was a delight.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Man and his unthinking exploitation of resources - leading to global warming.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Get aware, take care of the environment, use resources sparingly or you will destroy exactly that which you need in order to survive.
Today’s Date: 5 Feb 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Hiking, Drakensberg, Andes and Rockies
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Kenton on Sea, Eastern Cape, and Cathedral Peak, Drakensberg
Now? Drakensberg, and Swartvlei, Western Cape
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Squirrel. Brought one up on Cape Town and it was a delight.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Man and his unthinking exploitation of resources - leading to global warming.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Get aware, take care of the environment, use resources sparingly or you will destroy exactly that which you need in order to survive.
February 04, 2007
Anonymous
student
Today’s Date: February 4, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
When I was a child every year at Christmas time my whole family would go to land that my Grandparents owned to cut the smaller pines from the woods to sell for Christmas trees. My Grandparents were farmers, and selling Christmas trees was how they paid for Christmas. The woods had a newer section were there were trees my Grandparents had planted themselves, way back when. Those original plantings had grown and were reproducing naturally in the area by the time I came around, and those new young trees were the ones we would walk back in and thin, and drag out on a trailer behind a snow mobile until we made it back up to the road where the cars were waiting. There was not even a drive into the property back then. The wooded property was not on the same side of town as their house, and so I didn't get to go there very often, but I always looked forward to it. There was back farther a stand of very old Scotch Pines in those woods, and I loved to walk under those tall pines in the quiet of the woods. I felt very connected to the trees, and sheltered under their boughs, it was magical. Since then I have always loved the woods, (and especially love old stands of Scotch Pines), and I hope someday I will find a special wooded place of my own to be care taker of. It makes me sad that the person who purchased that land from my Grandmother has now built a housing development in those very special old woods. I will make sure that when I do find my land that the woods will be protected even after I leave by donating it to a charity that will preserve it when I am gone. I have a deep appreciation for the beauty of the Earth on which we were born, and for our responsibility as it's care takers that comes partly from my Grandparents, partly from the magic of those trees, and partly from seeing those beautiful woods developed.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I lived two houses down from my Grandparents farm, and I was down there as much as I was at home (maybe more really). I loved to play in my Grandma's yard, and that was definitely my favorite place as a child.
Now? I enjoy hiking through the many beautiful wooded parks in my state. It would be too hard to pick a favorite, I love finding new special places as often as I can to walk through.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
I love all animals, and I get a lot of pleasure from feeding my local birds, chipmunks and squirrels especially. My favorite animal however would have to be my cat. He is an orange male with short hair and tiger stripes and he is a great companion. He enjoys watching my feeders too, but with different intent.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Without question global climate change, and I believe it will continue to be into the future for at least my life time. How the world responds to the call to reduce emissions, deals with managing our limited resources, and hopefully finds sustainable ways for such an expanded population to live on the only planet we have is certain to be the greatest challenge our species has ever faced.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Taking care of our Gaia is taking care of ourselves.
If we truly wish to consider ourselves the most intelligent species on the planet and masters of the land, then we must accept the responsibilities that come with that. It is possible to live comfortably and do so in a sustainable way if we will simply make the decision to do so. Please do things such as:
Buy an electric hybrid vehicle
Buy your energy from companies that generate emission free power such as hydro or wind
Or put in a grid tied system of your own
When building or remodeling support green development practices and products
Buy foods and goods produced locally over those that were shipped from far away when possible
Buy foods and goods made of recycled or sustainable materials over those that were not
Buy products that were produced by a company that cares about the environment and does not pollute
(Remember that your purchases do matter!)
Talk to your work place about ways it can be made more efficient and green minded
Write to your representatives and let them know that these are matters that you expect them to act upon
If you cannot do the all above you can still make good choices, and keep your life style, simply:
Drive the most fuel efficient car you can afford
Walk or bike more for local trips
Turn down your thermostat by a few degrees in winter and up a few degrees in summer
Buy the most energy efficient appliances you possibly can
Make your home as well insulated and energy efficient as possible
Use compact florescent bulbs
Place things on a remote and/or that constantly use power even when off on a switch or power strip and turn them off when not in use
Today’s Date: February 4, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
When I was a child every year at Christmas time my whole family would go to land that my Grandparents owned to cut the smaller pines from the woods to sell for Christmas trees. My Grandparents were farmers, and selling Christmas trees was how they paid for Christmas. The woods had a newer section were there were trees my Grandparents had planted themselves, way back when. Those original plantings had grown and were reproducing naturally in the area by the time I came around, and those new young trees were the ones we would walk back in and thin, and drag out on a trailer behind a snow mobile until we made it back up to the road where the cars were waiting. There was not even a drive into the property back then. The wooded property was not on the same side of town as their house, and so I didn't get to go there very often, but I always looked forward to it. There was back farther a stand of very old Scotch Pines in those woods, and I loved to walk under those tall pines in the quiet of the woods. I felt very connected to the trees, and sheltered under their boughs, it was magical. Since then I have always loved the woods, (and especially love old stands of Scotch Pines), and I hope someday I will find a special wooded place of my own to be care taker of. It makes me sad that the person who purchased that land from my Grandmother has now built a housing development in those very special old woods. I will make sure that when I do find my land that the woods will be protected even after I leave by donating it to a charity that will preserve it when I am gone. I have a deep appreciation for the beauty of the Earth on which we were born, and for our responsibility as it's care takers that comes partly from my Grandparents, partly from the magic of those trees, and partly from seeing those beautiful woods developed.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I lived two houses down from my Grandparents farm, and I was down there as much as I was at home (maybe more really). I loved to play in my Grandma's yard, and that was definitely my favorite place as a child.
Now? I enjoy hiking through the many beautiful wooded parks in my state. It would be too hard to pick a favorite, I love finding new special places as often as I can to walk through.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
I love all animals, and I get a lot of pleasure from feeding my local birds, chipmunks and squirrels especially. My favorite animal however would have to be my cat. He is an orange male with short hair and tiger stripes and he is a great companion. He enjoys watching my feeders too, but with different intent.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Without question global climate change, and I believe it will continue to be into the future for at least my life time. How the world responds to the call to reduce emissions, deals with managing our limited resources, and hopefully finds sustainable ways for such an expanded population to live on the only planet we have is certain to be the greatest challenge our species has ever faced.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Taking care of our Gaia is taking care of ourselves.
If we truly wish to consider ourselves the most intelligent species on the planet and masters of the land, then we must accept the responsibilities that come with that. It is possible to live comfortably and do so in a sustainable way if we will simply make the decision to do so. Please do things such as:
Buy an electric hybrid vehicle
Buy your energy from companies that generate emission free power such as hydro or wind
Or put in a grid tied system of your own
When building or remodeling support green development practices and products
Buy foods and goods produced locally over those that were shipped from far away when possible
Buy foods and goods made of recycled or sustainable materials over those that were not
Buy products that were produced by a company that cares about the environment and does not pollute
(Remember that your purchases do matter!)
Talk to your work place about ways it can be made more efficient and green minded
Write to your representatives and let them know that these are matters that you expect them to act upon
If you cannot do the all above you can still make good choices, and keep your life style, simply:
Drive the most fuel efficient car you can afford
Walk or bike more for local trips
Turn down your thermostat by a few degrees in winter and up a few degrees in summer
Buy the most energy efficient appliances you possibly can
Make your home as well insulated and energy efficient as possible
Use compact florescent bulbs
Place things on a remote and/or that constantly use power even when off on a switch or power strip and turn them off when not in use
Jaime Ortiz Patiño
Owner, Valderrama Golf Club - Spain
Today's Date: 25th January 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
To look out on my golf course and the wildlife sanctuaries around the course, and see how both can co-exist in harmony.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
My favourite place was the Swiss mountains. We used to go on school excursions for skiing and mountain- climbing.
Now? Now my favourite place in the great outdoors is being on the golf course at Valderrama and seeing everything grow in perfect condition.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
My favourite animal is the polar bear. It makes me very sad to think that it is in danger of extinction.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
The greatest environmental challenge we face today is pollution, which must be controlled. The greatest environmental challenge we will face in the future is global warming.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
My advice would be to be aware of energy consumption, and not waste it.
[sent via postal mail]
Today's Date: 25th January 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
To look out on my golf course and the wildlife sanctuaries around the course, and see how both can co-exist in harmony.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
My favourite place was the Swiss mountains. We used to go on school excursions for skiing and mountain- climbing.
Now? Now my favourite place in the great outdoors is being on the golf course at Valderrama and seeing everything grow in perfect condition.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
My favourite animal is the polar bear. It makes me very sad to think that it is in danger of extinction.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
The greatest environmental challenge we face today is pollution, which must be controlled. The greatest environmental challenge we will face in the future is global warming.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
My advice would be to be aware of energy consumption, and not waste it.
[sent via postal mail]
Rula Khateeb
Project Manager- Youth Development and Voluntary Work Association - Palestine
Today's Date: Feb 3, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
i had a chance to visit a forest at Greece, while walking through i felt that nature is like a mother protecting its self and surrounding it self. i wished to stay there.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
yes
Now? No, we in Palestinian Territories have very limited space to move across
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Cat, its so cute animal, keep playing like a little kid, we don’t have a zoo in Palestine to see other animals
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
the climate change
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
we have to be aware that nature is protecting us and we have to protect it to be protected
Today's Date: Feb 3, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
i had a chance to visit a forest at Greece, while walking through i felt that nature is like a mother protecting its self and surrounding it self. i wished to stay there.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
yes
Now? No, we in Palestinian Territories have very limited space to move across
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Cat, its so cute animal, keep playing like a little kid, we don’t have a zoo in Palestine to see other animals
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
the climate change
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
we have to be aware that nature is protecting us and we have to protect it to be protected
Phil Straw
Director/Avifauna Research & Services - Australia
Today's Date: 3/02/07
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Musk Ox in Greenland
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
no
Now? no
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
The Bar-tailed Godwit, it crosses the Pacific in a single flight and can fly 9.5 days without stopping
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Habitat loss, habitat loss
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Everyone can make a difference to the environment, do your bit to save for future generations
Today's Date: 3/02/07
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Musk Ox in Greenland
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
no
Now? no
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
The Bar-tailed Godwit, it crosses the Pacific in a single flight and can fly 9.5 days without stopping
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Habitat loss, habitat loss
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Everyone can make a difference to the environment, do your bit to save for future generations
BIOCADENA
BIOCADENA (BIOCLUB AMIGOS DE LA NATURALEZA) in English is something like (NATURE'S FRIENDS BIOCLUB) - Perú
Today's Date: 2nd February 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Well the group have diferents, one of them were with:
* bears
* king vulture
* Andean Condor
* Turkey vulture
* White-winged Guan
* Northern tamandua
* White-tailed Deer
* Peruvian Boa
* and more
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
beaches, rivers, lakes, and others
Now? the group have two the wetlands and Chaparri (a reserve where you can watch spectacled bear
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Bear, by their way of be
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
hurricanes, tsunamis, earthquake, drought, no water, and we have to help to the environment the be the same as the 50's or less.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
a piece of soil pollutioned or a glass of water pollutioned
Today's Date: 2nd February 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Well the group have diferents, one of them were with:
* bears
* king vulture
* Andean Condor
* Turkey vulture
* White-winged Guan
* Northern tamandua
* White-tailed Deer
* Peruvian Boa
* and more
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
beaches, rivers, lakes, and others
Now? the group have two the wetlands and Chaparri (a reserve where you can watch spectacled bear
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Bear, by their way of be
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
hurricanes, tsunamis, earthquake, drought, no water, and we have to help to the environment the be the same as the 50's or less.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
a piece of soil pollutioned or a glass of water pollutioned
Margaret Lawrence (Feathers in Hair)
n/a (unless you count religiousforums.org, where I am a 'super-moderator'.)
Today's Date: Feb. 1, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
On this plane of 'existence', interaction with the fox is probably the most important. At a certain point in my life, I was sitting in the back of a carpool to elementary school and glanced out the window just in time to see a fox running alongside the car. I had just enough time to marvel over its beauty and grace before it seemed to purposefully head under the wheels of the car. (Yes, that took a good many weeks for me to get over.) As time progressed, I began to realize that the fox had chosen to sacrifice itself in order for me to gain some of its wisdom and strength, especially since was at a point where I needed tips on survival. (In your line of work, I imagine that you're familiar with 'spirit animals' and their attributes, and the one I associate most with Fox is the ability to survive.)
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I grew up in South Carolina, both in the rural north and the heavily populated capitol of Columbia. In the 'boondocks', it was pretty much limited to my own and my churches backyard. In Columbia, there was usually access to a forest behind the apartments we were living in at the time. I would spend hours simply exploring the area.
Now? Pretty much anywhere near running water. There's an old quarry that is in a town nearby, and they've built a rough walking trail around it.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
(Zookeeper would be one of the positions I would love to be able to be trained to do!) Of the beings seen at the zoo, it would probably be the tiger. My favorite animal would be the unicorn, or its Chinese counterpart, the kylin. Its attributes as a compassionate being who seeks to heal are ones I admire and associate with what I hope to aspire to.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
The pollution of the waters. I imagine global warming might be a more immediate threat, but both are dangerous in my mind.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Treat the earth as you would your mate, for She will help you raise your children.
Today's Date: Feb. 1, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
On this plane of 'existence', interaction with the fox is probably the most important. At a certain point in my life, I was sitting in the back of a carpool to elementary school and glanced out the window just in time to see a fox running alongside the car. I had just enough time to marvel over its beauty and grace before it seemed to purposefully head under the wheels of the car. (Yes, that took a good many weeks for me to get over.) As time progressed, I began to realize that the fox had chosen to sacrifice itself in order for me to gain some of its wisdom and strength, especially since was at a point where I needed tips on survival. (In your line of work, I imagine that you're familiar with 'spirit animals' and their attributes, and the one I associate most with Fox is the ability to survive.)
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I grew up in South Carolina, both in the rural north and the heavily populated capitol of Columbia. In the 'boondocks', it was pretty much limited to my own and my churches backyard. In Columbia, there was usually access to a forest behind the apartments we were living in at the time. I would spend hours simply exploring the area.
Now? Pretty much anywhere near running water. There's an old quarry that is in a town nearby, and they've built a rough walking trail around it.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
(Zookeeper would be one of the positions I would love to be able to be trained to do!) Of the beings seen at the zoo, it would probably be the tiger. My favorite animal would be the unicorn, or its Chinese counterpart, the kylin. Its attributes as a compassionate being who seeks to heal are ones I admire and associate with what I hope to aspire to.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
The pollution of the waters. I imagine global warming might be a more immediate threat, but both are dangerous in my mind.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Treat the earth as you would your mate, for She will help you raise your children.
Damon Gerard Corrie
Pan-Tribal Confederacy of Indigenous Tribal Nations
Today's Date: 2-February-2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Tortoises in Childhood - first pet & sacred animal tribally, it taught me patience, tranquility, diet for longevity (little meat), determination.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I enjoyed all outdoor areas - natural - not man-made landscapes though.
Now? Same - except now I need the presence of my people around me as well to feel complete, where I grew up was in exile from my people.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Tortoise, for all the reasons in answer to question 1.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Global warming caused by unbridled capitalism fueld by worship of the Almighty dollar - instead of the Creator of the universe.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Mankind was created to be the caretaker of this planet - not the destroyer of it; every living thing has an equal right to exist.
Today's Date: 2-February-2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Tortoises in Childhood - first pet & sacred animal tribally, it taught me patience, tranquility, diet for longevity (little meat), determination.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
I enjoyed all outdoor areas - natural - not man-made landscapes though.
Now? Same - except now I need the presence of my people around me as well to feel complete, where I grew up was in exile from my people.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Tortoise, for all the reasons in answer to question 1.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Global warming caused by unbridled capitalism fueld by worship of the Almighty dollar - instead of the Creator of the universe.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Mankind was created to be the caretaker of this planet - not the destroyer of it; every living thing has an equal right to exist.
Charlie Toledo
Director/Suscol Intertribal Council
Today's Date:2/2/2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Lizard jumping at my head at night campfire. Also Humming bird circling me at auspicious moments all my life.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Just the desert backyard. Created a whole cosmology w/my siblings staring at Sandia Crest and expansive blue sky of Albq., New Mexico
Now? All the hills, rivers and ocean I visit and work at in Northern California
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Elephant, due to many recurring dreams and eventual trip to Africa where an entourage of all gender, all ages elephants crossed our path and huge male bull trumpeted our journey into "camp". The elephant is matriarchal, tribal; they bury their dead and care for their young as a group. All these are some of the reasons why I love elephants.
But my most favorite animal or insect is the one that is closest to me at the moment whether it be squirrel clicking at me through bedroom window, hawk whistling at me as I walk beneath it's tree or circling me in ceremony at sunrise, or the ant that is waving to me from the edge of my car to tell me "pay attention to the little things."
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
To pay attention to the little things water, air awareness of all species of life all are one air, one water. Survival of our greedy and overpopulated species will be the biggest challenge of the near future. Clean Water, clean air w/out these things we cannot live.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Walk!
Today's Date:2/2/2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
Lizard jumping at my head at night campfire. Also Humming bird circling me at auspicious moments all my life.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Just the desert backyard. Created a whole cosmology w/my siblings staring at Sandia Crest and expansive blue sky of Albq., New Mexico
Now? All the hills, rivers and ocean I visit and work at in Northern California
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
Elephant, due to many recurring dreams and eventual trip to Africa where an entourage of all gender, all ages elephants crossed our path and huge male bull trumpeted our journey into "camp". The elephant is matriarchal, tribal; they bury their dead and care for their young as a group. All these are some of the reasons why I love elephants.
But my most favorite animal or insect is the one that is closest to me at the moment whether it be squirrel clicking at me through bedroom window, hawk whistling at me as I walk beneath it's tree or circling me in ceremony at sunrise, or the ant that is waving to me from the edge of my car to tell me "pay attention to the little things."
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
To pay attention to the little things water, air awareness of all species of life all are one air, one water. Survival of our greedy and overpopulated species will be the biggest challenge of the near future. Clean Water, clean air w/out these things we cannot live.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Walk!
February 02, 2007
Glenn Robinson
Hominid -- Earth First!
Today’s Date: February 2, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
There was no single Natural interaction I can single out as life-changing. The Spring forests of upstate NY and mountains of Colorado's Front Range come to mind, though.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Now? These days I enjoy day trips/weekends in the Jemez mountains of New Mexico, but all Earth is my home and country.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
I'm rather partial to binturongs. Easy-going, spend their days high and safe in a tree, come out at night to forage.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Greatest environmental challenge? Countering the complete environmental collapse currently underway. A planetary infection of intelligent apes, destroying and polluting everything they touch.
Future challenges: Maintaining biodiversity, preventing future catastrophic infestations.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Don't breed!
Today’s Date: February 2, 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
There was no single Natural interaction I can single out as life-changing. The Spring forests of upstate NY and mountains of Colorado's Front Range come to mind, though.
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
Now? These days I enjoy day trips/weekends in the Jemez mountains of New Mexico, but all Earth is my home and country.
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
I'm rather partial to binturongs. Easy-going, spend their days high and safe in a tree, come out at night to forage.
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
Greatest environmental challenge? Countering the complete environmental collapse currently underway. A planetary infection of intelligent apes, destroying and polluting everything they touch.
Future challenges: Maintaining biodiversity, preventing future catastrophic infestations.
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
Don't breed!
February 01, 2007
Ararat Majeed Raheem
Head, Green Kurdistan Society, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
Today's Date: 1 February 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I am protecting env. for this every animal impacted me especially horses
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
boyn village
Now? mountains and villages life
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
[no answer given]
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
recycling
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
every man be regarded about env. because the earth in danger. my religion is zardashty not Islam my religion ordered me to protect the environment every where
Today's Date: 1 February 2007
1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?
I am protecting env. for this every animal impacted me especially horses
2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood?
boyn village
Now? mountains and villages life
3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?
[no answer given]
4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?
recycling
5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?
every man be regarded about env. because the earth in danger. my religion is zardashty not Islam my religion ordered me to protect the environment every where
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